Since the founding of Foothills UMC in 1978 and, particularly, the building of our sanctuary in 1984, it has been the intent of this congregation to work towards a multi-use Fellowship Hall. In 2006 a long-range planning process affirmed the need for a Fellowship Hall. In 2008 our Building Committee was formed. In 2010 a feasibility study confirmed the viability of such a facility and engaged in preliminary designing. In 2012 we conducted a capital campaign which started generating funds in 2013.

2. How is this project proposal different from the original proposal?
The first proposal was a whole campus plan that included not only a multipurpose building but also significant changes to the sanctuary building. Feedback from the congregation and analysis by the Building Committee indicated the some of the costs were exorbitant and complex. As a result the Building Committee separated the planning of the new building from the sanctuary changes and prioritized the former.

The committee chose a local architect (Mark Roberts) with commercial experience. He met with the committee numerous times and the committee became comfortable with their ability to work with him collaboratively.

The committee concluded that the original design, although beautiful, competed with the sanctuary. We wanted the sanctuary to be the "star" on the campus, with the other building in a supporting role. The Education building appearance was used as a basic model and guide so that roof lines and architectural features are compatible.

6. What changes to the general budget will result after the new building is completed?

We reviewed utilities, custodial, and secretarial increases as well as maintenance and use requirements. We estimate the expense increase to be up to $20,000 a year. These costs would not be evident at the immediate opening of the building but would increase with the building use increase. Some current sanctuary costs might well go down as activities move to the more efficient Fellowship Hall. We also expect the space to be available for community use, thus some costs would be offset by fees from users.